Waveshare Round LCD GC9A01: Circular Gauge Projects

Waveshare round LCD modules with the GC9A01 driver create eye-catching circular displays for gauges, speedometers, and dashboard instruments.

Specs

• 1.28-inch round IPS, 240×240, GC9A01
• SPI interface, 65K colours
• Available as standalone module or integrated on RP2040/ESP32 boards

Setup

Connect via SPI. Use gc9a01 MicroPython driver or TFT_eSPI for Arduino.

Drawing Circular Graphics

• Use polar to cartesian conversion: x = cx + r*cos(theta), y = cy + r*sin(theta)
• Draw gauge arcs by plotting points along circumference
• Stay within 120-pixel radius from centre

Projects

• Analogue clock with second hand
• Car-style speedometer/tachometer
• Temperature gauge with colour zones
• Compass display with magnetometer
• CPU load meter for desktop

Tips

• Pre-calculate sine/cosine lookup table for faster rendering.
• Only redraw changed elements (hands, needles) not entire background.
• Use anti-aliased line algorithms for smooth gauge needles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Other sizes available?

Yes, 1.28-inch and 1.69-inch round modules from Waveshare.

Refresh rate?

SPI-based, typically 20-40 FPS.

Touchscreen version?

Some round displays include capacitive touch.

Best MCU for this?

RP2040 or ESP32-S3 with PSRAM for smooth graphics.

Conclusion

Round LCD displays bring a premium, instrument-like look to gauge and clock projects.

Browse the full Waveshare collection at Zbotic.in with fast shipping across India.